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Evergreen | Fall/Winter 2014 1 Fall/Winter 2014 evergreen The Magazine of Sunnyside Communities
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Fall/Winter 2014
evergreenThe Magazine of Sunnyside Communities
Table of
CONTENTSIn a time when health care feels like a constantly moving target, Sunnyside Communities remains committed to positive changes – changes specifically focused on enhancing quality of life, ensuring quality care, and meeting the needs
of our residents, while continuing to sustain growth.As I reflect on 2014, it has been a year defined by
progress – successes, transitions, and modernizations. For example, renovations have begun at all three campuses and will continue into next year. Other capital projects are on the horizon. An electronic medical records system has been installed at each of our communities. And, there is more to come in 2015!
Change is inevitable in our industry, and Sunnyside Communities embraces it. Our dedicated staff, through its strong sense of purpose and imagination, is the catalyst for positive change in our communities. Sometimes it comes in the form of innovations and renovations but other times, change is about turning to longstanding foundations – like music and the arts – to enrich the lives of others. As you will see in this issue of Evergreen, both are alive and well at Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square.
Each of our communities has exceptional ways in which to welcome music and the arts into the daily lives of their residents, whether for enjoyment or therapeutic reasons. From tapping toes in the multi-sensory room to joining in on a sing-a-long to strolling through an art-fused gallery, there’s one thing for certain – music and the arts bring happiness to our residents in a variety of meaningful ways.
Just look at Don and Lyn Short, residents of Summit Square who are featured on the cover of the magazine. Dancing not only brings them joy, but possibly a stroll down memory lane.
As we look forward to 2015, I would like to thank all of our stakeholders – residents and their families, staff, donors, business associates, board members, and friends of Sunnyside Communities – for your continued support. You all make a difference!
John J. “Jack” BroaddusPresident & CEO
On the Cover: Summit Square residents Don and Lyn Short Photo by: Lynda McMillenE v e r g r e e n | F a l l / W i n t e r 2 0 1 42
Meet the ResidentsLearn about residents who live at Sunnyside Communities.
Corporate NewsSunnyside and King’s Grant welcome new executive directors.
A Multi-Sensory Moment of JoyFor residents with dementia the multi-sensory experience improves quality of life and creates happiness.
Story by Karen Doss Bowman
The Healing Power of the ArtsMusic and the arts trigger memories and bring enjoyment to residents.
Story by Karen Doss Bowman
Community NewsAn overview of happenings at Sunny-side, King’s Grant and Summit Square.
Q&A with the President & CEOJack Broaddus talks about progress at Sunnyside Communities.
Donor ProfileLearn why Ralph and J.D. Lester feel blessed to be a part of King’s Grant.
Giving to Sunnyside CommunitiesThe Care and Feeding of Your Will.
President & CEO’s Message
Evergreen is published by Sunnyside Communities, Corporate Office,
600 University Boulevard, Suite L, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, for residents, staff, trustees, donors, and friends of
Sunnyside, King’s Grant, and Summit Square.
www.sunnysidecommunities.com540-568-8600
Printed using Toyo HyPlus ink, a petroleum-solvent-free ink made from a vegetable oil base including soy and linseed oils.
© 2014 Sunnyside Communities, Harrisonburg, VA
Stay up-to-date with all of the happenings at each of Sunnyside’s campuses!
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COMPLIMENTARY, OVERNIGHT
Three communities. So many choices.
Experience retirement living by arranging
your complimentary, overnight Staycation*
today. See first-hand why more than 750
people choose to live at Sunnyside, King’s
Grant and Summit Square.
*Certain restrictions may apply.
SUNNYSIDE(800) 237-2257
Harrisonburg, VA
KING’S GRANT(800) 462-4649
Martinsville, VA
SUMMIT SQUARE(800) 586-5499
Waynesboro, VA
Editor Karen Wigginton
Contributing EditorRob Murphy
Art Director Pat Knight
Contributing WriterKaren Doss Bowman
PhotographyLynda McMillen
Editorial AssistantsLisa Kanney
Lynda McMillen
Printed ByMcClung Companies
Waynesboro, VA
Board of TrusteesThe Honorable James J. Rowe
Chairman Mr. Steve H. Gordon
Vice ChairmanMr. Mark B. Callahan
Secretary
Dr. Craig B. DietrichRev. Dr. Fred A. Holbrook
Dr. Shun C. LingMr. Peter A. McCoy, Jr.
Ms. Kathy MoranMr. Richard R. J. MorinDr. Daphyne S. Thomas
Mrs. Margaret S. Thompson
Corporate StaffMr. John J. “Jack” Broaddus
President & CEOMr. Ken Boward
Chief Financial OfficerDr. Karen Wigginton
Vice President of Corporate Marketing &
Communications Mr. Lynn DeCair
Executive DirectorKing’s Grant
Mrs. Annie FellersExecutive Director
Summit SquareMr. Josh Lyons
Executive Director Sunnyside
Mr. Rob MurphyDirector of Development
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Charley Shank and Barbara Wheatley started life together
as newlyweds in April, but both had already made Sunnyside their home several years ago. Living in a community that provides the full spectrum of care, they say, means that their children don’t have to worry about what happens to them as they age.
“It’s a relief for our children, knowing we’re secure and happy,” Barbara says. “It’s quite a commit-ment for adult children to have to take care of aging parents, so we have taken care of all that ourselves by being here.”
A lifelong resident of Harrisonburg and dentist for 41 years in the area, Charley moved to Sunnyside six years ago with his late wife, Har-riette, to whom he was married for 55 years. She died in March 2010. Sunnyside was the only retirement community they considered.
“I had a lot of patients who lived here, and we knew that Sunnyside had an excellent reputation,” Char-ley says. “We knew it was the right place for us.”
Barbara moved to Sunnyside in 2009, just a few months after the
Barbara Wheatley and Charley Shank
death of her husband, Jim. The Wheatleys, who were married for 52 years, were prominent busi-ness leaders in Harrisonburg as owners of Wheatley Yetzer Ford and founders of the Harrisonburg Auto Auction.
Coincidentally, the Shanks and Wheatleys were friends for many years. Two of their daughters—Barbara and Jim’s daughter, Susan Wheatley Grow, and Charley and Harriette’s daughter, Nancy Shank Wayland—have been best of friends since childhood.
“They always wanted to be sisters,” Barbara says. “And finally, they are sisters.”
Charley, a graduate of the Univer-sity of Virginia and the Medical College of Virginia, was involved in numerous civic activities before moving to Sunnyside, including the Lion’s Club and the Harrison-burg City Council. A longtime member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, he raised four children with Harriette.
A graduate of James Madison University, Barbara moved to Har-risonburg with Jim and their three children in 1964 when they pur-
chased the Ford dealership. They grew the Harrisonburg Auto Auction into a nationally known business. She is a longtime member of Asbury UnitedMethodist Church.
Even in retirement, Charley and Barbara stay busy. At Sunnyside, Barbara volunteers for Sunny Trea-sures, the resident-led gift shop. A member of the Spotswood Garden Club, she has a gift for creating lovely flower arrangements and pre-pares many bouquets to be used for Sunnyside’s dining rooms, chapel services and other events. Charley is a member of the Resident’s Council at Sunnyside, and he and Barbara both help with the community’s annual Apple Butter Festival.
Charley and Barbara feel blessed to live in a close knit and caring community, surrounded by caring residents and staff.
“The staff gives lots of TLC, and they’re always willing to help with whatever you need,” Charley says.
Barbara adds: “Everyone we’ve met has been so nice, and we’ve made many new friends. I’m happy I chose Sunnyside—it’s been a won-derful place to live.” n
Newlyweds in a Caring Community
sunnysidemeet the residents
Charley Shank & Barbara Wheatley
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NewtonCreating Art
Kenneth Newton
A n artist, Kenneth Newton finds inspiration in the Shenan-
doah Valley’s tranquil, expansive farmland. When he and his wife, Marion, began thinking about retirement, they knew they didn’t want to stray too far from the area. They moved to Summit Square—just six miles from their home in Fishersville—in 2009.
“We lived in the area for many years, and we didn’t want to have to leave it for retirement,” Kenneth says. “Summit Square was close to home. We wouldn’t have to change doctors or banks or other things about our lives. If we had chosen somewhere farther away, we would have had to make a lot of changes. This was convenient for us, and we liked what we saw.”
An art teacher for 25 years, Kenneth worked for the public school systems in Buckingham and Augusta counties as a high school teacher and as a supervisor for the elementary art programs.
He also has taught art classes for adults privately and through UVA’s extension courses. Kenneth retired from teaching in 1979 to become
a full-time artist. A native of Roanoke, Va., Kenneth primarily works in watercolor or pen and ink—sometimes a combination of the two—to create realist scenes reminiscent of the many summers he spent at his grandparents’ farms. His work reveals a love of nature and the country, and a fascination with old buildings and antiques.
A graduate of Richmond Professional Institute (now Virginia Commonwealth University) with a B.F.A. degree, Kenneth also has taken art classes at Longwood University, the University of Virginia, James Madison University and East Tennessee State University. As a participant in many art shows along the East coast, Kenneth’s artwork has been recognized with numerous awards of excellence, purchase awards and commissions. His work is included in private collections across the U.S. and abroad.
Kenneth continues to paint at Summit Square, where he offers a wide selection and variety of artwork for sale. He and Marion,
who have two adult children, also enjoy taking quiet walks together around the community and getting to know other residents.
“We’ve enjoyed living here because of the convenience, but it’s also a pleasant place to be,” Kenneth says. “Mostly everyone smiles and has a positive attitude.”
For people who are exploring retirement communities, Kenneth recommends finding a place that offers the conveniences of home. “The Shenandoah Valley is a picturesque setting,” he says, “that offers a peaceful, comfortable lifestyle.”
“I recommend for anyone to visit Summit Square and see what it has to offer,” Kenneth says. “Take a look around the area and see what it’s like. The convenience factor was important for us.” n
summit squaremeet the residents
Kenneth
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ShookAn Ambassador for King’s Grant
When a small group of Martinsville community
leaders began gathering in the early 1990s to make plans for a place where senior citizens could live comfortably, stay active and access quality health care, Wendy Shook and her late husband, Don, were part of the conversation. They helped generate public support and raise money for the project. Once King’s Grant became a reality, the Shooks made plans to someday move to the retirement community.
“Back then, Don and I were not as concerned about retirement because we were relatively young, but we still felt that it was impor-tant to support the effort to start King’s Grant,” says Wendy, who was married to Don for 45 years. “We knew there was a special need for this type of place that would offer the full range of care for senior citizens.”
After Don retired from his posi-tion as an executive at Tultex Corporation, however, the couple decided to move to Meadows of Dan, and later to Smith Mountain
Wendy Shook
Lake. Sadly, Don died of cancer in 2009, and Wendy soon found that taking care of a large home was difficult for her to do alone. She decided it was time to move to King’s Grant, where she would be surrounded by caring neigh-bors and staff members. In August 2013, she moved to King’s Grant.
“I feel like I’ve come full circle to come back to this area again,” says Wendy, a Lutheran minister’s daughter who was born in Rich-mond, Va., and grew up in Atlanta and Charlotte, N.C. “I’ve been very happy here. I feel very secure that there’s always someone to take care of me and that I’ll be able to go through the different levels of care as needed.”
A talented pianist and organ-ist, Wendy finds joy in sharing her musical gifts with others in the King’s Grant community by volunteering to play for worship services, chapels and special events. She also plays at First Presbyterian Church in Martinsville, where she’s a member, and occasionally substitutes for organists at several other churches in the area.
“My music means a lot to me and brings me so much joy,” Wendy says.
An avid reader, Wendy leads a book club at King’s Grant. She also partici-pates in a local bridge club and volun-teers with the Remembrance Garden at King’s Grant. During each Christ-mas season, she displays the large collection of Chrismon ornaments she handcrafted years ago, in hopes they bring joy to other residents.
Wendy considers herself an ambassa-dor for King’s Grant and has become something of a de facto recruiter for the community. She takes every op-portunity to tell friends and acquain-tances what she likes about living at King’s Grant and encourages them to visit.
“The people here—staff and other residents—are like my extended family,” says Wendy, whose adult daughter lives in Roanoke. “Everyone is helpful, friendly and accommodat-ing. There’s a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s a beautiful set-ting. I encourage others to come and see for themselves what the commu-nity has to offer.” n
king's grantmeet the residents
Wendy
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L ynn A. DeCair became the executive director of King’s Grant Retirement Community in March. He succeeded Becky Farrar who retired after 25 years
of service.
Prior to joining King’s Grant, DeCair was the executive director of Westminster Village, Inc., a 350-unit continuing care retirement community in Bloomington, IL, for 25 years. He served in other administrative roles in the senior living industry prior to his tenure with Westminster Village.
A graduate of College of Mount St. Joseph on the Ohio, DeCair holds a bachelor of arts in business management. Additionally, he is a licensed nursing home
administrator and certified aging services professional.
Locally, DeCair is a member of the Martinsville Uptown Rotary Club. He was formerly a member of the Bloomington Sunrise Rotary Club.
DeCair and his wife Shelia reside in Martinsville.
KING’S GRANTWelcomes DeCair as EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
In May, Sunnyside Retirement Community welcomed Josh O. Lyons as executive director of the campus in Harrisonburg, VA.
Prior to joining Sunnyside, Lyons served as vice president of health services at Bridgewater Retirement Community. His experience in senior living spans more than 20 years including leadership roles at Culpeper Baptist Retirement Community, The Chesapeake Retirement Community – Virginia Baptist Homes, and King’s Grant House.
A graduate of James Madison University, Lyons holds a bachelor of science in health services administration. Additionally, he is a licensed nursing home administrator.
Locally, Lyons serves as the chairman of Generations Crossing, an intergenerational adult and child day care in Harrisonburg. He also is a member of the Dayton Town Council, and formerly served as its vice mayor.
Josh and his wife Holly live in Dayton with their two children – Sydney and Owen.
SUNNYSIDEAppoints Lyons as EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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Throughout his life, George Swecker loved dancing and
music—especially bluegrass. But late-stage dementia suffered during his last years kept him locked inside himself, unable to interact with his family or the world around him.
But when Sunnyside’s Multi-Sensory Starlight Room became available in June 2011, staff members began taking him in for brief shows of bright colors, sounds, images and sensations. He became so involved that his eyes would follow the lights dancing on the walls and his feet would tap joyfully to the music.
For his daughter Elly Swecker, of Harrisonburg, sharing the experience with him was a thrill. Once, she recalls, her father tapped his feet so happily that he nearly slid out of his wheelchair. Swecker says the Starlight Room brought comfort and peace to George and his family before his death in January 2013.
“Daddy was so totally engaged with his surroundings in that room, and it was
exhilarating for us,” says Swecker. “He was not able to communicate with us at that point, so to see him respond to something that was familiar and that made him happy was wonderful. It was a way for us to see him responding to his world. It was just beautiful.”
Sunnyside’s Starlight Room and the Dietrich Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE) at King’s Grant Retirement Community
offer therapeutic benefits and improved quality of life to residents at both communities. These spaces are equipped with tubes of colored bubbles flowing to the ceiling, fiber-optic light strands, a disco ball and mirrors, a projector with abstract effect wheels, and a variety of sensory objects for residents to touch. The MSE at King’s Grant also has a special bed that vibrates to the beat of the music. These may be used to stimulate the
A Multi-Sensory MOMENT OF JOY by Karen Doss Bowman
Sunnyside resident Marie Campomezz and Jackie Duke, LPN, in the Multi-Sensory Room.
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senses of residents like George Swecker, who are disengaged with their environment, or they may be used to calm residents who are agitated.
“These sessions can relax the resident, it may bring them pleasure, and it may bring back memories,” says Glennette Poland, activities coordinator at Sunnyside. “When you see the effects it has on a resident—it’s just hard to describe. I’ve cried in this room. To be able to share the experience with them is wonderful. And the families often get a good visit because of it.”
The MSE grew out of a concept that began in Holland, called “Snoezelen,” a term that combines two Dutch verbs that mean “sniffing” (or to seek out/explore), and “dozing” (to relax). In the late 1970s, two Dutch therapists set up an experimental sensory tent containing objects that appealed to every sense. Since then, Snoezelen has become a worldwide movement, present in more than 30 countries. The spaces were originally used to help children with autism or other developmental delays, but their application for aging populations is becoming more recognized.
“These rooms are about creating a balance of what was meaningful in these people’s lives and bringing
back happy memories so they can still have a quality of life,” says Linda Messbauer, one of the world’s leading experts on MSEs who designed Sunnyside and King’s Grant’s spaces. “These rooms bring about happiness, relaxation and reduced stress.”
Messbauer says the key to getting the best results for the residents is to train staff to run the sessions—or “shows,” as she calls them—correctly, with sensitivity to the resident’s interests, fears and formative experiences. Messbauer teaches staff members about sensory processing, how to select appropriate music and how to choose the right patterns of lighting and movement. The MSE is used primarily for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, but residents who have suffered a stroke or who are experiencing severe depression also may benefit.
‘The real key to a multi-sensory environment is working with the individual without leaving them isolated,” Messbauer says. “That’s the beauty of it. It’s all about relationships. It’s all about communicating differently with
someone who can no longer communicate in the normal process. And whoever is running the show gets as much out of it as the person who’s receiving the show. When you’re working with people in these rooms, you are sharing an experience and a journey, and that journey is very emotional. It is heart-warming—it will put goose pimples on your arms.”
The MSEs offer numerous therapeutic benefits, including bringing back memories. Messbauer points out that there are many physical benefits as well. Done correctly, a show can prompt a resident who always looks down at the floor to move the head up, and the show may encourage greater arm and leg movement. For residents who are mobile, the session may improve
Shanna Wright, King’s Grant’s health services director, with a resident in the Multi-Sensory Room.
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balance and the ability to move from a chair to standing position.
Shanna Wright, health services director at King’s Grant, enjoys sharing the “miracle moments” she’s witnessed since the MSE was installed at her community. In one session, she recalls a resident with dementia who came in for a ses-sion during which Wright played Gospel music. The woman started singing along to “In the Garden,” and asked Wright if they were in heaven. For this resident, who no longer recognized her family members, the experience brought back happy memories from years before.
Another resident with Alzheimer’s disease looked into the mirror during her show and asked, “Virginia, is that you?” Wright played along and answered, “Yes,” which seemed to put the woman at ease. Later, Wright learned that Virginia was the resident’s twin sister—who also has Alzheimer’s and lives in another state. The two hadn’t seen each other in years.
“This resident had a quality visit with her sister,” Wright says. “We can bring residents in here, and once they see the lights and mirrors, their attention gets redirected so that they can focus on something positive. It’s a real quality of life improvement.”
Both Poland and Wright are enthusiastic about the MSEs in their respective communities. The experiences are not only
beneficial for residents, but also for families and the staff.
“I’d run shows in this room full time if I could,” Wright says. “It brought me back to why I went into nursing. The administrative functions of my job take me away from the bedside, and this allows me to have more interaction with residents. It’s enjoyable to know you’re improving someone’s quality of life.”
Swecker was so impressed with the impact the MSE had on her father and her family that she launched
a family fundraiser to support the room with additional resources. Though her father is gone, she hopes that many other families will be able to experience joyful—if fleeting—moments with their loved ones.
“This was important for Daddy, but it’s also important for the people who come after him,” Swecker says. “We’re all in this together. There’s no cure for this horrible disease, but we can find the tools to improve the quality of life for those who suffer. Daddy definitely benefited from the time he spent in the Starlight Room. But it didn’t just help him; it helped the whole family because we were excited to see him engaging with his environment.” n
Multi-Sensory Room
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Jenny Lucas, who provides pas-toral care to residents at Summit Square, has seen the healing power that music can have in people’s lives—especially those suffering from dementia and other condi-tions of aging. During weekly devotions, for example, Lucas often plays her guitar and leads residents in singing well-known hymns. Even those with memory loss sometimes are able to recall the words to familiar songs.
“I may have a resident who hasn’t spoken a sentence all week, but they often will sing every word of an old hymn like ‘Blessed Assurance,’” says Lucas, Summit Square’s life enrichment director. “Music seems to really spark their memories and engage them. It can really bring them to the present.”
Music and the visual arts, as well as cultural performances, are a significant part of resident life at Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Sum-mit Square. The arts promote cre-ative expression, engagement and connections with others, lift de-pression and draw out memories. All of these factors help to enhance
the quality of life for all residents of these communities, regardless of their health circumstances.
New Instruments and Art Exhibits
Summit Square has always had pi-anos in the community art gallery, as well as in the activities room, for residents to enjoy. However, these instruments were not in the best condition. So residents and staff members formed a fund-rais-ing committee to generate interest
among residents, staff and the local community to purchase two new pianos. The effort was suc-cessful. Last December, a Hallet, Davis & Co. 5’5” Grand Piano was placed in the art gallery, and a Baldwin concert vertical piano, with a digital piano player system, was placed in the Assisted Living/
The Healing Power OF THE ARTS Music and the Visual Arts Bring Joy by Karen Doss Bowman
Summit Square resident Gloria Crapser
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Health Care area. These instruments are used for many special occa-sions, including vesper services and birthday parties.
And residents especially enjoy listening to the digital player piano throughout the day. Lucas recalls one resi-dent with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, who waves her arms as if conducting the mu-sic. The woman, Lucas explains, once was a pianist and director of a children’s choir. There also have been several concerts featuring the art gallery’s new grand piano, including a recital of piano and vocal music by Kelly Thomas, a pianist and opera coach with the Zurich Opera House in Switzerland, and her sister Linda Minetree, a retired teacher from Hampton. They are the daughters of Summit Square residents Bill and Polly Thomas.
“These are the best pianos we’ve had in years, and it’s exciting for all of us,” Lucas says. “Since we’ve gotten the new piano, we’ve heard from many of our friends who want to come perform on these brand-new, beautiful pianos. They really have been a blessing for our residents here at Summit Square.”
Summit Square also has an art gallery that is overseen by a com-
mittee of residents. The artwork, supplied by the Shenandoah Valley Arts Center, features a wide variety of mediums from local artists. The exhibits are changed every two months, and the gallery is open to the public. The space also is available for residents to use for gatherings with their families, and the staff sometimes uses it for meetings.
“The art gallery here at Summit Square offers a fabulous oppor-tunity for our residents to have a revolving art museum right here in their home,” Lucas says. “I know our residents love getting to the gallery, seeing the exhibits and leaving comments for the artist.”
Arts Fusion
The Memory Care Program at King’s Grant recently began offer-ing Arts Fusion, a program of the Alzheimer’s Association. As the name suggests, the program brings together a mix of visual arts, lit-erature and poetry, and music for residents to enjoy.
The program was brought to King’s Grant by Reynolds Home-stead, a nearby arts and educa-tion center that also features the birthplace and boyhood home of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds. The Homestead lends its trained volunteers to lead and present the sessions for King’s Grant residents who have been diagnosed with any kind of dementia, or for those who show early signs of memory loss.
Volunteers work with a small group of about 10 residents, showing them a variety of items from the Homestead, including handmade quilts, baskets and pottery, paint-ings and other artifacts. They will ask the residents questions related to that art to start conversation.
Andrea Braziel, events and volun-teer coordinator at King’s Grant, enjoys observing how residents respond. During a recent session, for example, one woman who was beginning to show signs of memory loss seemed to light up when the presenter began showing a collection of antique postcards featuring stamps from different U.S. states. The resident, who had once been a teacher, was able to name every state capital and then
Beth Almond Ford, historical services assistant with Reynolds Homestead/Virginia Tech, shows residents an antique quilt.
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reminisced about travels she’d taken across the country.
“The session took on a life of its own—it was wonderful to see,” Braziel says. “This pro-gram really starts conversations and triggers memories. It’s exciting to watch.”
Residents participating in the program also have the opportu-nity to make art, play musical instruments or dance (stand-ing or in a wheelchair). Braziel plans to have poetry readings in the future.
“This program provides intellec-tual, physical and social stimu-lation for people from diverse backgrounds and at any stage of memory loss,” Braziel says. “The arts keep residents connected to their past and to the outside world. These sessions often bring back something that was impor-tant to them in their lives. It’s a positive outlet, and we’re fortun-ate to be able to offer this kind of program to our residents.”
Music Care
Sunnyside recently began devel-oping a Music Care Program in collaboration with James Madison University’s School of Music. The program, which is available to resi-dents at all levels of care and those in independent living, will give JMU students a chance to serve an older population by performing solo or group concerts, provid-ing quiet music at the bedside, or engaging residents in interactive
musical experiences through sing-ing or playing handheld instru-ments. They also may occasionally offer music education experiences through lectures about a particu-lar musical genre, composer or instrument.
“Research indicates that music can be therapeutic in a health care set-ting,” says Annie Shaffer, wellness director, adding that Sunnyside and JMU music faculty are exploring appropriate ways to incorporate the multi-sensory rooms in this initiative. “Music can be soothing and calming for residents—as well as for our staff members. It will give students an intergenerational experience, allowing them to learn the rewards of working with this population. We hope this collabo-ration will be mutually beneficial for students and residents.”
As part of the program, Sunny-side hopes to attain certification through Music and Memory, a nonprofit organization that strives
to improve the quality of life for older adults—especially those struggling with memory disor-ders—by using the latest digital technology to deliver personal-ized music. Shaffer says that JMU students are coordinating an “iPod drive” with the goal of collecting 30 devices for use in Sunnyside’s wellness program. Sunnyside staff will complete individual music assessments on the residents who are identified as participants, gathering information about their musical backgrounds and tastes to create customized, personalized playlists on the iPods.
“These playlists will be tailored to each resident’s personal interest, and we hope listening to the music will be soothing and allow them to reconnect with the world as the music evokes memories,” Shaffer says. “It can be a very uplifting experience. This partnership with JMU’s School of Music has poten-tial to enrich the lives of all of our residents at Sunnyside.” n
James Madison University Horn Concert Choir
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sunnysidecommunity news
In May, a group of residents traveled to Scotland with stops in Glasgow, Inverness, Culloden Moor, Pitlochry, Dundee, St. Andrews, and Edinburgh. Residents enjoyed “the best fish and chips” in Glasgow and toured an ancient cathedral and several castles.
Apple Butter Festival a Hit
A time honored tradition on the Sunnyside campus is the Apple Butter Festival. This year, the festival was held on September 27 and drew hundreds of visitors. Local vendors and craftsmen were on site selling a wide selection of hand-made items including scarves, jewelry and artwork. Food items included Brunswick stew, country ham sandwiches, freshly made doughnuts, baked goods and, of course, Sunnyside’s Famous Apple Butter! Festivities included a silent auction, yard sale and a Christmas shop.
The Apple Butter Festival’s roots date back to 1971, when Sunnyside held an annual bazaar with homemade goods and crafts. The bazaar was replaced with the Apple Butter Festival 10 years ago and is completely resident-led. Residents and volunteers begin a few weeks in advance and spend numerous hours making hundreds of pints of apple butter, which many say is “the best in the Valley.” The Apple Butter Festival raises money to benefit the residents of Sunnyside by funding the library on site, the fellowship fund, as well as the activities team.
Residents in Scotland
Staff Takes Ice Bucket Challenge
Residents Tour Scotland
Sunnyside staff participated in the ALS Association Ice Bucket Challenge which helps raise awareness for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Challenged by another local retirement community, they assembled on the campus and let the ice water fall. Sunnyside also made a donation to the ALS Association.
Sunnyside Voted A “Best of Virginia”
Readers of Virginia Living magazine voted Sunnyside a 2014 “Best of Virginia” retirement community in the Shenandoah Valley.
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Sunnyside Retirement Community recently concluded a successful seven month initia-tive devoted to promoting the seven dimen-sions of wellness. This program, titled the BLOOM (Bringing Life Optimizing Oppor-tunities Mainstream) Initiative, was imple-mented to educate and empower residents to pursue a higher level of personal wellness. The program, which highlighted and cel-ebrated one dimension per month, helped achieve this ambitious goal. It was introduced with a dynamic promotional campaign that included resident surveys, multiple presenta-tions, guided wellness self-assessments, and a customized BLOOM logo with each dimen-sion represented by a flower petal. Each month, Sunnyside chose one specific dimension to spotlight and showcase through innovative programming and promotions such as an “acts of wellness” challenge, book recommendations, inspirational quotes, programs, speakers and more — all relative to that month’s featured dimension. An average of 71 entries were submitted each month by residents demonstrating their current wellness behaviors and opportunities for improved personal wellness.
Programs offered during the initiative were popular and beneficial. The BLOOM logo was implemented on dining menus to designate healthy eating choices and resulted in reported weight loss. The Cardio Drumming and Christ Centered Yoga classes encouraged residents to try and learn new things. The Heifetz International Music Institute Concert, performed by a talented Russian Cellist and Bulgarian Pianist in Sunnyside’s campus chapel, drew in a standing room only crowd! The after-school volunteer program was so enjoyed by both residents and students that this outreach and inter-generational opportunity is being offered again this school year.
Other BLOOM programs that were especially well received included an interactive Art Fair, “Christianity and Environmentalism” lecture, The Newlywed Game, Virginia Wind Energy Tour at JMU, “Virginia Master Naturalists” Lecture, and Winged Migration Movie.
The enthusiasm and momentum generated from this initiative continues to inspire the wellness-culture on the Sunnyside campus. The BLOOM logo continues to steer Sunnyside programming and is continuously used and commonly recognized throughout the campus. This program not only educated residents on the seven dimensions, it also gave those residents opportunities and empowerment to successfully pursue their personal path towards whole-person wellness.
Sunnyside Wellness Program BLOOMS with Life
Resident Lena Bish with Annie Shaffer, wellness director
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king's grantcommunity news
Representatives from King’s Grant participated in Danville’s annual “Walk to End Alzheimer’s.” The team, named Kings and Queens, consisted of residents, staff, family and friends. Collectively, they raised $1,477, which was the fourth highest amount raised for the walk. “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
Billiard Tournament Draws Crowd
Antique & Classic Car Show a Success
King’s Grant hosted its first Antique and Classic Car Show in June. More than 60 collectors and 200 guests cruised onto the campus to display their cars, talk to guests and share their stories. Live music by the River City Grass Band and food were enjoyed by all while they took in the sights.
King’s Grant Participates in Alzheimer’s Walk
King’s Grant held its first annual Billiard Tournament in September. Many residents participated and enjoyed playing on a newly installed pool table. Others came out to cheer for the players. Congratulations to Richard Carle who won the tournament!
Pictured: Patricia “Pat” Christenbury and tournament winner Richard Carle.
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Carol Burnett Performance Comes to Martinsville
King’s Grant and the TheatreWorks Community Players in Martinsville are proud to present “An Evening of Carol Burnett” on Thursday, December 4, 2014, at 7:00 pm. Enjoy non-stop laughter with a collection of comedy sketches and music from the classic Carol Burnett television show. Make your reservations by calling 800.462.4649. Tickets are $15 per person and seating is limited.
King’s Grant Voted “Best of Virginia”
Readers of Virginia Living magazine’s third annual Reader’s Survey voted King’s Grant the Best Retirement Community in Southwest Virginia in 2014. King’s Grant received the top award in 2012 and 2013 as well.
Residents Enjoy Luau
King’s Grant Hosts Golf Outing
Fifty-one participants attended the annual King’s Grant Invitational Golf Outing on October 8. For more than 20 years prospects, staff and guests attend this golf outing and enjoy the fellowship with each other. Lunch and door prizes are provided to all participants and the winner’s name is placed on a plaque that is located in the foyer at King’s Grant. Gene Chaney, Blue Priddy, J.B. Carter and Tony Comer were the winners.
Pictured (L to R): Resident Don Howe; move-in coordinator Wayne Slate; resident, Sandra Coleman and Lynn DeCair, executive director of King’s Grant.
King’s Grant residents and guests put on their Hawaiian attire and enjoyed an evening of fellowship and fun at a Luau, complete with island food, drinks, music and dancing!
Mary Lou McGoldrick Jim and Marilyn Fisher
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summit squarecommunity news
Dinner Around the World
Summit Square residents traveled aroundthe world in just one evening with the tastesand sights of foods and wines from the seven
continents. A wonderful regional menu, pairedwith different wines from the same region, was
served while live music, including an Irish Band,a violinist, and the Boogie King’s Jazz Band,
provided the sounds for the evening.Residents and guests enjoyed an evening
under the stars while they dined,danced and made new friends.
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Summit Square Voted a 2014 Valley Favorite
Each year readers of the News Virginian in Waynesboro, Staunton, Augusta County and Nelson County vote on their “favorites” in several different categories. Summit Square was voted “Best Senior Living Community.” Thank you to all who voted for Summit Square – Where Life is Better!
Residents of Summit Square wore flowered shirts and donned leis for a Hawaiian Luau. It was a lavish and colorful celebration that included Hawaiian food, games, prizes, tropical drinks and live entertainment. Pictured: Joanne Hartnett and Rudy Yobs
Residents Compete in Corn Hole TournamentResidents enjoyed an afternoon of tossing bags of corn during the Summit Square Annual Cornhole Tournament. Congratulations to Branch Hammock (pictured) for taking home the crown for the second straight year!
Residents Enjoy Luau
Summit Square staff accepted the ALS chal-lenge to help raise awareness for Lou Gehrig’s Disease and made a donation to ALS.
Summit Square celebrated its 16th anniversary in June with a “Sweet 16” party that included lots of sweet treats!
Residents of Summit Square par-ticipated in in the local “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” in September by manning the water station located on the Sum-mit Square campus.Pictured (L to R ): Giles Trimble, Louise Sweet, Meg Haislip , Branch Hammock, Marie Lonas, Alice Coppic
Walk Gets Support from Residents
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Q&AWith Sunnyside's President & CEO on Progress
How has Sunnyside Communities grown over the years?
Prior to 2008, there was a tremendous growth in the senior living industry as a whole. After 2008, there was a pause in growth. For Sunnyside Communities, that pause led us to focus on the efficiency of our operations and made us better prepared for the future. Today, all three of our communities are well-positioned for anticipated advancements in our industry.
The marketplace dictates the future. Whether its sustainability, home health care, memory care, community partnerships and affiliations, the marketplace drives how we position ourselves in the market. Remaining educated about key trends in the senior living industry is critical to the future of any retirement community. Historically, the retirement community market has been seniors, but we now market just as much to adult children who are assisting their parents in the decision making process, and who are also looking down the road for themselves.
Jack Broaddus, President & CEO What are the key drivers of change for Sunnyside Communities?
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4We are currently embarking on a number of capital projects at Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square that involve everything from installing an electronic medical records system to updating décor to refurbishing residences and common areas. At King’s Grant, we have already made great progress in our assisted living and health care areas, and now we are preparing to update the lobby of the main building for the enjoyment of our residents, staff and visitors. The primary focus on the Sunnyside campus has been the Pannill Health Care Center. We renovated the health care entrance earlier this year and we are now moving forward with a plan to make, what we hope to be, transforming changes for our health care residents. In addition to the electronic medical records system, which we believe is a significant quality assurance and care management tool, our goal is to transform the health
care living environment with more of a neighborhood concept by renovating and improving everything from the resident rooms, common areas, activity and dining locations to outdoor and support care facilities. In the near future, the Summit Square campus will enjoy a renovated lobby and entrance way, enhanced apartment living spaces, and updated décor. All of these improvements are part of an on-going process in our organization that keeps us at the forefront of our industry. While we are investing in the physical aspects of our communities, we also are continuing to advance programming that supports and promotes healthy, active lifestyles in all of the dimensions of wellness, and addresses trends in retirement living, especially those powered by seniors. Additionally, we will continue to invest in technologies that enable us to transform the delivery of care and improve efficiencies in our organization. n
3What are the must-have elements to keep Sunnyside Communities viable and successful in the future?
Newer generations are more deliberate about their lifestyles and their wants and needs when it comes to retirement living. We need to be well-educated about their expectations and flexible when it comes to meeting their desires. It is no longer “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to retirement communities and their residents.
The “must-have” elements for this to happen are a strong capital structure, a knowledgeable management team and well-rounded board, an appealing physical plant attune to the market, a strong corporate culture, and a well-trained staff that shares the corporate vision.
What changes need to be made to keep Sunnyside Communities attractive in the future?
Thank You!
Each of our communities – Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square – recently achieved the highest rating for overall quality in skilled nursing care from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The CMS Five-Star Quality Rating System evaluates the nation’s skilled nursing facilities on their performance in complying with health care standards, quality measures, and staffing. Only the top 10 percent of nursing homes achieve the CMS overall Five-Star Rating.
This is an outstanding accomplishment for each community. A special note of thanks to the executive directors for their leadership and the dedicated staff for continually emphasizing quality, resident-centered care. It is because of you that Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square achieved the CMS Five-Star Rating.
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PROFILEDonor
Ralph and J.D. Lester We Feel Blessed
Apioneer of the modular home industry, Ralph Clayton Lester
has dedicated his life to building safe, welcoming communities in his hometown of Martinsville and beyond. Now a resident of King’s Grant, Ralph and his wife, June (known to all as “ J.D.”), are focused on strengthening their retirement community by providing philanthropic support that will help ensure their neighbors always have a place to call home.
“I’m thankful that I can now be here at King’s Grant, where I’m surrounded by so many family members and friends that I’ve known all my life,” Ralph says. “I’ve enjoyed the togetherness of this community, and I want others to be able to enjoy living here. The residents, as well as the staff, are very friendly and supportive.”
The Lesters—who married 32 years ago in the midst of a major snowstorm—established the Ralph Clayton and June D. Lester Fellowship Endowment for King’s Grant. The fund covers the cost of care for King’s Grant residents who outlive their financial resources.
An endowment is a permanent fund established by an initial gift that is invested for long-term growth. The interest earned from this investment is used to support the cause designated by the donor.
“For us, this is an important part of building a community, which has always been part of my charitable interest,” Ralph says. “We feel so blessed that God has given us the ability to make this type of gift, and we hope it will be used to help residents in need.”
Ralph, who grew up in Martinsville on Barrows Mill Road with seven siblings, helped out in his family’s lumber business. He left his hometown during World War II, serving as an officer and a glider pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps. After returning home from New Guinea, Ralph was assigned to work cooperatively with the Army’s Airborne Division, serving as an instructor for the military glider program until his retirement from active duty in 1945.
Recognized as a leader and innovator in the modular home
industry, Ralph says, “I’m grateful for the advice and support we received from good friends, bankers, customers and employees who all helped to make our businesses successful. Now, J.D. and I want to give back to this community that has done so much for us and has been good to so many people.”
J.D. adds: “I wouldn’t want to see anyone have to leave King’s Grant because their resources have run out. I’m glad we were able to set up the endowment so that people who need financial support can stay here in this welcoming community for the rest of their lives.”
A native of Jonesville, N.C., J.D.’s career included bank teller, a bookkeeper and in sales for a telecommunications company. A longtime volunteer with the Salvation Army, she was a founding member of the Martinsville Area Community Foundation and is an honorary member of the Patrick Henry Community College Board of Directors.
The Lester’s hope that their charitable support for King’s Grant will inspire others to do the same. n
Ralph and J.D. Lester
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S o, you are one of the lucky ones whose will is written. This doesn’t mean, however, that you can
stick it in a drawer and forget about it. A will requires some ‘care and feeding’ (now what the heck do we mean by that?).
What we mean is that life is full of changes, and when the changes are those that could impact your will, it’s time to get that document out, review it, and deter-mine if it needs updating.
Too often, the writing or updating of your will is one of those things that slips off your radar screen. Why? We bet that like most people, you’d rather spend your time doing things you enjoy instead of sitting down to review your will and your decisions about the distri-bution of your assets. [It’s human nature to put off the things we have the least interest in doing – and things that remind us of our mortality are probably on that list.] Yes, you know it is important, but does it really have to be done right now? Well, if not now, then when? If you don’t set some time aside to do it, it just won’t happen.
Unfortunately, it’s often some bad news that gets you motivated – such as the sudden death of a friend who didn’t have a will, and the dilemmas it brought to the family members who, in the midst of their grief, had to guess how your friend would have wanted his af-fairs handled. Their loved one left no clues – without a will, there aren’t any. And what about the charitable organizations this person had supported during his life – without a will there won’t be any bequests to them. It is a sad story that could have been avoided.You think about reviewing your will when your spouse dies, when you’re about to take a trip to a far-away place, or when you suffer an unexpected illness. If you feel the urgency at that time to act quickly and
get something on paper, you might not think every-thing through. Writing or revising a will is serious business, and you don’t want to make hurried deci-sions because you think the clock is ticking.
We urge you to consider the ‘care and feeding of your will’ when there isn’t a deadline, and when you aren’t in a stressful emotional or medical situation. It is so much better to write or update your will when you have the time to concentrate on making sound deci-sions regarding your estate.
And, if in the process, you’d like to include a bequest to one or all of the Sunnyside Communities, we’d be most grateful. Let us know if we can be of assistance.
It’s your will – take good care of it! Questions? We can help.
Sunnyside Communities Development OfficeServing Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square
600 University Blvd. Suite L Harrisonburg, VA 22801
www.sunnysidecommunities.com
Your WillThe Care and Feeding of
LYNDA MCMILLEN540.568.8234800.237.2257 ext. [email protected]
ROB MURPHY540.568.8228800.237.2257 ext. [email protected]
This article is intended to provide general gift planning information. Always consult with your own legal and
financial advisors before making any gift.
Non-Profit Org.US Postage
PAIDHarrisonburg, VA
Permit No. 40
600 University Blvd., Suite LHarrisonburg, VA 22801
www.sunnysidecommunities.com
By purchasing this limited edition print, you not only enjoy a piece of Sunnyside’s history, you also make a difference to residents who have outlived their financial resources. A portion of each sale goes to the Sunnyside
Communities Fellowship Fund which supports residents at Sunnyside, King’s Grant and Summit Square.
To order your limited edition print, please contact Rob Murphy, Director of Development, at (540) 568-8228. Cash, check or credit card accepted.
Own a Piece of Historyand make a difference
“From Humble Beginningsto a Century of Caring”
by P. Buckley Moss
Limited Edition Print$125 each*
Artist’s Proof $315 each*
*(plus $15 shipping and handling)
